Other Specialty Products

Papaya

If you are in need of a tropical escape, papayas are the perfect fruit. They are sweet with a soft, butter-like consistency and oh so good for you! Although peppery and somewhat bitter, a papaya’s seeds are also edible. The fruit (and leaves) contain an enzyme called papain which helps digestion and can be used to tenderize meat.

Crystal Valley markets Solo papaya year-round. Although papaya trees produce fruit year-round, its seasonal peak is in the early summer and fall.

TIPS FOR SELECTION

Choose papayas that are free of blemishes and firm with a few streaks of yellow.

HOW TO STORE

Keep papayas at room temperature until completely yellow.

HEALTH BENEFITS

A good source of fiber and folate

High in vitamins C and A

Free of fat, saturated fat, cholesterol

very low-sodium

HOW TO PREPARE

Papayas can be eaten in a variety of ways. You can eat them raw as a sweet treat, add them to salads, or squeeze a little lime juice on them with and a spice like tajin for an extra zing! They can also be added to smoothies and diced for fruity salsas.